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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of December 12, 2016

CDC Fact of the Week

Week of December 5, 2016

In 2002, Congress provided resources for CDC to launch a national, multicultural, social marketing campaign to respond to the growing problem of childhood obesity. The campaign, VERB™ It’s what you do, encouraged tweens, ages 9-13, to be more physically active.

CDC Fact of the Week

Week of November 21, 2016

In 2014 CDC activated its Emergency Operations Center to respond to the largest Ebola outbreak in history affecting multiple countries in West Africa. CDC helped coordinate the response at the national level, providing health education and assisting with database management. CDC trained teams of people to do contact tracing, to help find everyone who came in direct contact with a sick Ebola patients.

Week of October 31, 2016

CDC Fact of the Week

Week of October 24, 2016

In 2001 CDC was involved with the World Trade Center and bioterrorist anthrax attacks and response. See more in the EID – Investigation of Bioterrorism-Related Anthrax, United States, 2001: Epidemiologic Findings.

CDC Fact of the Week

Week of October 17, 2016

In 1999 CDC launched National Pharmaceutical Stockpile (now the ), a stockpile of drugs, vaccines, and other medical products and supplies, to provide for the emergency health security of the US and its territories.

CDC Fact of the Week

Week of October 10, 2016

In 1994 the Vaccines for Children Program was established. It’s a federally funded program that provides vaccines at no cost to children who might not otherwise be vaccinated because of inability to pay. Learn more here.

Week of August 29, 2016

In 1976 CDC sends disease detectives to investigate two large outbreaks of an unknown deadly hemorrhagic fever in Zaire and Sudan, a disease later known as Ebola. Nearly 4 decades later Ebola was making news around the world. Since March 2014, West Africa has experienced the largest outbreak of Ebola in history. CDC and partners have worked to contain this epidemic at its source. Learn more.

Week of August 8, 2016

In 1960, the Tuberculosis Program transfers from the US Public Health Service to CDC. The Tuberculosis laboratory is already in Atlanta at Lawson General Hospital, having moved there several years earlier.

In the early 20th century, TB was the leading cause of death in the United States. From that point TB cases steadily declined until the 1980s and early 1990s when a TB resurgence occurred with over 25,000 TB cases being reported per year. The resurgence was associated with the emergence of the HIV epidemic, increased immigration from countries with high TB rates, and a deterioration of TB control programs in many jurisdictions. Following a major investment in TB control activities at all levels of government, TB cases began to decline again. In 2014, the reported number of US TB cases was 9,421, with a case rate of 3.0 cases per 100,000 population (30 per million population). Since the 1992 TB resurgence peak in the United States, the number of TB cases reported annually has decreased by 65 percent.

Week of August 1, 2016

In 1957, the Asian flu pandemic emerged in Hong Kong with millions of cases and thousands of deaths. CDC quickly set up an influenza surveillance unit, a joint operation of the Epidemiology and Laboratory Branches.

In January 2016, an outbreak of HPAI (H7N8) virus was reported in a commercial turkey flock in Dubois County, Indiana. LPAI (H7N8) was subsequently detected in eight nearby turkey flocks. No transmission of HPAI (H7N8) or LPAI (H7N8) virus to humans was reported. More information is available here.

Week of July 25, 2016

In 1955 during the National Polio Immunization Program, EIS officers trace 260 polio cases to improper vaccine production methods. As a result, CDC establishes the Polio Surveillance Program.

In 1988, the World Health Assembly adopted a resolution for the worldwide eradication of polio. It marked the launch of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), spearheaded by national governments, CDC, Rotary International, WHO, and UNICEF, with substantial support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

CDC Fact of the Week

Week of July 4, 2016

In 1949 CDC offered disaster aid in response to multiple chemical explosions in Texas City, TX. Afterwards, CDC was designated as the official response agency for future epidemics and disasters. Today The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) brings together scientists from across CDC to analyze, validate, and efficiently exchange information during a public health emergency and connect with emergency response partners. When activated for a response, the EOC can accommodate up to 230 personnel per 8-hour shift to handle situations ranging from local interests to worldwide incidents.

The EOC coordinates the deployment of CDC staff and the procurement and management of all equipment and supplies that CDC responders may need during their deployment.

In addition, the EOC has the ability to rapidly transport life-supporting medications, samples and specimens, and personnel anywhere in the world around the clock within two hours of notification for domestic missions and six hours for international missions.

Since its inception in September 2001, the EOC has responded to more than 50 public health threats, including hurricanes, food borne disease outbreaks, the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, and the Haiti cholera outbreak. In addition to emergencies, the EOC may also be activated for planned events (e.g., presidential inaugurations and Olympics taking place in the US) to monitor for incidents that may affect the public’s health. See comprehensive list of public health responses supported by the EOC since 2001.

CDC Fact of the Week

Week of June 27, 2016

CDC celebrates its 70th anniversary July 1. To mark this milestone, our Facts of the Week for the rest of the year will reflect various public health milestones, providing a look at then and now.

July 1, 1946 Malaria Control in War Areas, a program within the US Public Health Service, transitions into the Communicable Disease Center (CDC) on July 1. By 1951 Malaria is considered eliminated from the US. Flash forward to January 22, 2016. CDC’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated for Zika virus disease on January 22, 2016, and moved to a level 1 activation—the highest level—on February 8, 2016.

Week of June 20, 2016

Week of June 13, 2016

Cancer survivors are living longer after their diagnosis, but at least one-third of the more than 14 million survivors in the United States face physical, mental, social, job, or financial problems related to their cancer experience. CDC works with community partners to bring attention to these and other challenges faced by cancer survivors and provide education on ways to improve survivors’ health and quality of life.

Week of June 6, 2016

If you live in coastal areas at risk, CDC encourages you to begin preparing yourself for hurricane season. The Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 through November 30 each year. Please follow these important hurricane preparedness tips from CDC.

Week of May 31, 2016

Pools, waterparks, hot tubs/spas, and water playgrounds are great places to have fun, be active, or just relax. Having fun while you are in the water this summer means knowing how to stay healthy and safe! Learn more from CDC.

Week of May 16, 2016

Week of May 9, 2016

CDC reminds you clean hands can protect you from serious infections while you are a patient in a healthcare facility. Most germs that cause serious infections in healthcare are spread by people’s actions. Hand hygiene is a great way to prevent infections.

Week of April 25, 2016

April is National Minority Health Month. The theme for 2016 is “Accelerating Health Equity for the Nation.” Learn what CDC is doing and help raise awareness of the health disparities that affect minorities.

Week of February 1, 2016

Week of January 25, 2016

Did you know that birth defects affect one in every 33 babies born in the United States? That means about one child in every school classroom might be affected. Those are not just numbers—they represent real babies and families. CDC provides these family stories to learn more about birth defects and how these conditions can impact lives.

Week of December 14, 2015

Week of December 7, 2015

CDC reminds you, when workers do jobs in the cold, there are many risks. Some cold weather dangers are obvious, but others are harder to see. When you must work in the cold, always be prepared andbe aware.

Week of November 30, 2015

Gather and Share Your Family Health History

CDC encourages you to know your family health history. If you are concerned about a disease running in your family, collect your family health history and talk to your doctor at your next visit. A doctor can evaluate all of the factors, including family health history, that may affect your risk of diseases and can recommend ways to reduce that risk. Learn more.

Week of November 9, 2015

Week of November 2, 2015

CDC reminds you to check the batteries in your carbon monoxide (CO) detector. If you don’t have a battery-powered or battery back-up CO alarm, now is a great time to buy one. At least 430 people die each year in the United States from unintentional, non-fire related CO poisoning.

Week of October 26, 2015

October is National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month, which provides a perfect opportunity for schools, communities, and states to talk about the best ways to prevent bullying. CDC’s Division of Violence Prevention recognizes efforts to improve the school environment and to prevent bullying nationwide. We invite you to learn about bullying and what you can do to prevent it.

Week of October 19, 2015

CDC challenges you to test your Health IQ. Do you know the minimum SPF needed to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays? Or how many seconds you should wash your hands to kill germs? Test your Health IQ to see how your health skills stack up.

Week of October 13, 2015

Week of October 5, 2015

During National Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 through October 15, we celebrate the culture of US residents who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. While heritage includes the great traditions of family, respect for others, and festivities, it also includes the challenge of hereditary health conditions. CDC suggests you can celebrate by taking care of your health to prevent type 2 diabetes.

School-age children, from preschoolers to college students, need vaccines. CDC has online resources and tools to help parents and doctors make sure all kids are up to date on recommended vaccines and protected from serious diseases.

July 26th marked the 25th anniversary of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a civil rights law that strengthens the inclusion of people with disabilities at work, school, or other community settings. Learn what CDC is doing to include people with disabilities in public health research and health promotion activities.

While cancer survivors are living longer after their diagnosis, at least one-third of the more than 14 million survivors in the United States face physical, mental, social, job, or financial problems related to their cancer experience. CDC works with community partners to bring attention to these and other challenges faced by cancer survivors and provide education on ways to improve survivors’ health and quality of life.

Week of June 22, 2015

Elder abuse is a significant public health problem. Each year, hundreds of thousands of adults over the age of 60 are abused, neglected, or financially exploited. CDC works to prevent violence before it occurs. Learn more about elder abuse prevention.

Week of June 15, 2015

If you live in coastal areas at risk, CDC encourages you to begin preparing yourself for hurricane season. The Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 through November 30 each year. Please follow these important hurricane readiness tips from CDC.

Week of June 8, 2015

CDC works 24/7 to protect America from health, safety and security threats, both foreign and in the US Whether diseases start at home or abroad, are chronic or acute, curable or preventable, human error or deliberate attack. Learn more about CDC's mission, role and pledge.

Week of June 1, 2015

Spring weather can be unpredictable. CDC reminds you when severe weather hits unexpectedly, the risk of injury and death increases, so planning ahead makes sense. Prepare for storms, floods, and tornadoes as if you know in advance they are coming, because in the spring, they very likely will.

Week of May 18, 2015

The CDC/ATSDR National ALS Registry contributes to a better understanding of ALS and helps create a better future for the next generation of persons living with ALS. Read the latest and learn more about ALS and the ALS Registry.

Week of May 11, 2015

Home canning is an excellent way to preserve garden produce and share it with family and friends, but it can be risky or even deadly if not done correctly and safely. It's almost summer, and home gardeners will soon start to harvest the delicious produce they've been growing this year. See CDC's tips to protect yourself, your family, and others when you share your home-canned goodies.

Week of May 4, 2015

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 infections have been reported in US domestic poultry (backyard and commercial flocks), captive wild birds, and wild birds. CDC reports no human infections with these viruses have been detected at this time, however similar viruses have infected people in other countries and caused serious illness and death in some cases.

Week of April 27, 2015

Week of April 20, 2015

Current e-cigarette use among middle and high school students tripled from 2013 to 2014, according to data published by CDC and the FDA. This is the first time since the survey started collecting data on e-cigarettes in 2011 that current e-cigarette use has surpassed current use of every other tobacco product overall, including conventional cigarettes.

Week of April 13, 2015

CDC recommends that consumers do not eat any Blue Bell brand products made at the Oklahoma production facility, nor any recalled products, and that retailers and institutions do not serve or sell them. Learn more about the outbreak of listeriosis.

Week of April 6, 2015

Week of March 30, 2015

Youth violence is a significant public health problem that causes considerable harm to young people, families, and communities. Learn about CDC's work leveraging partnerships across jurisdictions through the STRYVE Action Council, a multi-sector group of organizations with the common objective of mobilizing and sustaining actions that prevent youth violence before it starts.

Week of March 23, 2015

Week of March 16, 2015

Public health emergencies can happen at any time, anywhere. Natural disasters, epidemics, and terrorist attacks that have occurred in recent years have underscored the importance of local, state, and federal public health systems in preparing for potential health threats. CDC's next Grand Rounds March 17, at 1:00 p.m. ET will discuss strategies to address the unique vulnerabilities of children in every stage of emergency planning. A live external webcast will be available. Check here for more information.

Week of February 17, 2015

Week of February 9, 2015

Did you know that no level of secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure is safe? SHS exposure occurs when nonsmokers breathe in smoke exhaled by smokers or from burning tobacco products. It kills more than 400 infants and 41,000 adult nonsmokers every year. CDC encourages you to learn more.

Week of January 26, 2015

Week of January 19, 2015

Five years after the devastating earthquake in 2010 left millions in need of urgent medical care, Haiti has made significant progress toward rebuilding the national public health system.CDC has led the reconstruction of the health sector to establish disease surveillance systems, enhance laboratory capacity, and develop human capacity in clinical services, epidemiology, and public health leadership. .

Week of December 22, 2014

Week of December 15, 2014

Winter storms and cold temperatures can be hazardous, but if you plan ahead, you can stay safe and healthy. Check out CDC’s tips to prepare your home and cars and for power outages and outdoor activity.

Week of December 8, 2014

Week of December 1, 2014

On December 1, people throughout the world observe World AIDS Day, an opportunity for the global community to honor those living with HIV; the families, friends, caregivers, and communities who support them; and those who have lost their lives to AIDS. As a science-based public health and disease prevention agency, CDC provides support that helps more than 60 countries strengthen their national HIV/AIDS programs and build sustainable public health systems. CDC conducts these activities through the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the largest commitment by any nation to combat a single disease.

Week of November 24, 2014

CDC offers tips to help you manage your diabetes during the holidays. Stay on track by taking medications on schedule and choosing healthy versions of favorite dishes. Remember to plan daily physical activities like walking after meals and dancing at festivities. And read the other suggestions.

Week of November 17, 2014

Four thousand women die of cervical cancer each year, yet as many as 93% of cervical cancers could be prevented by screening and HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccination. CDC wants you to learn more about preventing cervical cancer.

Week of November 10, 2014

CDC offers tips to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. If you don't have a battery-powered or battery back-up CO alarm, now is a great time to buy one. At least 430 people die each year in the US from unintentional, non-fire related CO poisoning.

Week of November 3, 2014

This fact sheet explains CDC’s updated guidance to protect America from Ebola. This updated guidance focuses on strengthening how we monitor people who may have been exposed to Ebola and how medical professionals will oversee their care and, when warranted to protect the public health or our communities, limit their movement or activities.

Week of October 27, 2014

If you are 50 to 74 years old, CDC recommends a screening mammogram every two years. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. Getting mammograms regularly can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. Get more information.

Week of October 20, 2014

Week of October 14, 2014

CDC reminds you that every year, millions of children in the United States catch enteroviruses that can cause coughing, sneezing, and fever. This year, the enterovirus that is most commonly causing respiratory illness in children across the country is enterovirus-D68 (EV-D68). Take basic steps to keep your child from getting and spreading EV-D68.

Week of October 6, 2014

CDC reminds you that everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop full protection against the flu. Get vaccinated now to protect yourself and your loved ones!

Week of September 2, 2014

Week of August 25, 2014

As CDC experts work 24/7 in response to the Ebola Outbreak in Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria, they support the response in many different capacities. In an effort to get the worst Ebola outbreak in history under control, CDC is not only providing guidance to healthcare professionals but traveling back to West Africa to focus on stopping the spread of the disease. Read their stories.

Week of August 11, 2014

Week of August 4, 2014

As West Africa Ebola outbreak worsens, CDC issues Level 3 Travel Warning. CDC has today issued a warning to avoid nonessential travel to the West African nations of Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. This Level 3 travel warning is a reflection of the worsening Ebola outbreak in this region. Get the latest information.

Week of July 28, 2014

CDC has formed an external laboratory safety workgroup of the Advisory Committee to the Director of CDC. This group will provide advice and guidance to the CDC Director and CDC’s new Director of Laboratory Safety.

Week of July 1, 2014

The Million Hearts initiative announces the launch of a new Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Resource Center, developed in partnership with CDC and Eating-Well magazine. The resource center features lower-sodium, heart-healthy recipes and family-friendly meal plans, with an emphasis on managing sodium intake, a major contributor to high blood pressure and heart disease.

Week of June 23, 2014

National HIV Testing Day is June 27. CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care and that some people with risk factors get tested more often. Find out more about testing recommendations.

Week of June 16, 2014

CDC works to prevent violence before it occurs. World Elder Abuse Prevention Day recognizes that each year, hundreds of thousands of adults over the age of 60 are abused, neglected, or financially exploited. Get more information on elder abuse prevention.

Week of June 9, 2014

If you live in coastal areas at risk, CDC encourages you to begin preparing yourself for hurricane season . The Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 through November 30 each year. Check out the hurricane preparedness tips.

Week of June 2, 2014

Smoking has been the number one cause of preventable death and disease in this country for decades. CDC just celebrated World No Tobacco Day. Learn more about this event sponsored by the World Health Organization.

Week of May 15, 2014

Each year, an estimated 50,000 individuals become infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the United States. Learn more at CDC’s Public Health Grand Rounds Presents: Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for Prevention HIV Infection, Tuesday, May 20, 2014, from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., EDT. A live external webcast will be available.

Week of May 5, 2014

On May 2, 2014, the first confirmed case of MERS-CoV was reported in a traveler to the United States.This is the only confirmed case in the United States. CDC is working very quickly to investigate this first US case of MERS and respond to minimize the spread of this virus. We expect to learn much more in the coming hours and days. We will share updated information through the CDC MERS website.

Week of April 28, 2014

CDC’s Division of Violence Prevention conducts research and programs to better understand the problem of child maltreatment and to prevent it before it begins.April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Week of April 21, 2014

Week of April 14, 2014

April is Minority Health Month and CDC is highlighting prevention strategies and actions leading to Health Equity. This year's theme, Prevention is Power: Taking Action for Health Equity emphasizes the critical role of prevention in reducing health disparities. Learn more about CDC Actions in support of the HHS Action Plan to Reduce Racial & Ethnic Health Disparities.

Week of April 4, 2014

CDC Supports APHA National Public Health WeekNational Public Health Week (NPHW), an initiative of the American Public Health Association (APHA), is April 7-13. The 2014 NPHW theme, “Public Health: Start Here,” focuses on how public health starts at home, from maternal health to nutrition and emergency preparedness. Each day this week focuses on a different area of public health. Read more.

Week of March 31, 2014

Week of March 24, 2014

World TB Day, March 24, brings renewed awareness to this life-threatening disease. CDC’s TB Personal Stories project features real people and their experiences of being diagnosed and treated for latent TB infection or TB disease. Learn more.

Week of March 17, 2014

Explore the role of CDC, WHO and other partners in combating tuberculosis. Watch CDC’s Public Health Grand Rounds, “Multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis: New Tools to Tackle New Challenges from an Old Foe,” Tuesday, March 18, 2014, from 1-2 p.m., EDT. Watch the live broadcast at either of the following links:

Week of March 10, 2014

Week of March 3, 2014

CDC’s Muscular Dystrophy Surveillance Tracking and Research Network is the only population-based muscular dystrophy tracking program in the United States. This program addresses gaps in public health research of muscular dystrophy.

Week of February 3, 2014

CDC wants you to know the risks of smoking. Dramatic new TV ads that show the harms of smoking are airing across the country beginning February 3, with CDC's 2014 Tips From Former Smokers(Tips) campaign. If you smoke, the real people who tell their stories can inspire you to quit for good. More than 100,000 people are now smoke-free, thanks to earlier Tips ads. Learn more.

Week of January 13, 2014

CDC cautions you to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

When power outages occur after severe weather (such as winter storms), using alternative sources of power can cause carbon monoxide (CO) to build up in a home and poison the people and animals inside. CO poisoning is entirely preventable. You can protect yourself and your family by acting wisely in case of a power outage and learning the symptoms of CO poisoning. For more information, please visit.

Week of December 30, 2013

CDC has released an update toSolve the Outbreak, the popular, free iPad app that puts you in the shoes of a member of the Epidemic Intelligence Service.The app now has 12 outbreaks, giving you the opportunity to climb the ranks and achieve your Disease Detective badge. The immensely popular app, with more than 31,000 downloads, has fans clamoring for more. So if you've been stuck as a Senior Specialist, now's your chance to work your way through the new outbreaks to earn more badges and new achievements.

Week of December 16, 2013

Week of December 9, 2013

You can be a disease detective.CDC has released an update to Solve the Outbreak, the popular, free iPad app that puts you in the shoes of a member of the Epidemic Intelligence Service. The app now has 12 outbreaks, giving you the opportunity to climb the ranks and achieve your Disease Detective badge.

Week of December 2, 2013

CDC operates on the principle that people with disabilities are best served by Public Health when they are included in mainstream public health activities.Around the world, people with disabilities face physical, social, economic and attitudinal barriers that exclude them from participating fully and effectively as equal members of society. December 3rd is International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This year's theme is “break barriers, open doors: for an inclusive society for all.”

Week of November 25, 2013

CDC and PEPFAR celebrate a decade of success in fighting global HIV/AIDS.As a science-based public health and disease prevention agency, CDC provides support to more than 70 countries to strengthen their national HIV/AIDS programs and build sustainable public health systems through the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

Week of November 11, 2013

Measles continues to be brought into the U.S.So far in 2013, more than 100 people in the United States have been reported. CDC recommends that children get two doses—the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age and the second dose before entering school at 4 through 6 years of age.

Week of November 11, 2013

A compelling new exhibition in the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, the Health Is a Human Right exhibit looks back through history at how minority groups have experienced health problems differently.The World Health Organization defines social determinants of health as the circumstances in which people are born, grow up, live, work and age, and access to health care. These circumstances are in turn shaped by a wider set of forces: economics, social policies, and political will.

Week of November 4, 2013

CDC's Environmental Public Health Tracking Network is a dynamic surveillance system that provides information and data about environmental hazards and the health problems that may be related to them.Data in the National Tracking Network comes from 24 funded state and local health departments, CDC programs, and other government agencies.

Week of October 28, 2013

Vaccine safety is closely monitored by CDC and the FDA.Everyone 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to develop an immune response.

Week of October 21, 2013

FoodCORE is a program supported by CDC that helps states detect and respond to multistate foodborne disease outbreaks.Each year, foodborne diseases cause illness in 1 in 6 Americans (or about 48 million people), resulting in about 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths FoodCORE centers work together to develop new and better methods to detect, investigate, respond to, and control multistate outbreaks of foodborne diseases.

Week of August 26, 2013

Week of August 19, 2013

Week of August 12, 2013

CDC helps keep you safe when you travelCDC’s Yellow Book helps business travelers and their doctors prepare for international trips by providing key health information and recommendations for staying safe and healthy while abroad. The Yellow Book is published every two years.

Week of August 6, 2013

Week of July 30, 2013

CDC investigates foodborne illnessesCDC is collaborating with public health officials in several states and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate a multistate outbreak of hepatitis A virus infections linked to pomegranate seeds from Turkey. While foodborne hepatitis A outbreaks are not common in the United States, our global food chain makes outbreaks possible.

Week of July 22, 2013

Week of July 15, 2013

CDC has created a preparedness guide and web portal to help states, communities and partners plan for and protect vulnerable and older adults in all hazardous emergencies.Older adults are especially vulnerable as they are more likely to have multiple chronic conditions, cognitive and physical disabilities.

Week of June 17, 2013

CDC Fights Diabetes.Workers with diabetes average two or more work days absent per year than workers without diabetes. Absenteeism costs are reduced by approximately $2.73 for every dollar spent on workplace wellness programs.

Week of June 4, 2013

CDC investigate outbreaks of foodborne, waterborne, and other enteric illnesses in the US.CDC’s Outbreak Response Team collaborates with a national network of epidemiologists and other public health officials. In 2012, CDC monitored between 16 and 57 potential food poisoning clusters each week and investigated more than 200 multistate clusters. These investigations led to the recalls of 300 products.

Week of May 27, 2013

CDC plays a pivotal role in public health preparedness for catastrophic eventsThrough CDC’s Cities Readiness Initiative, which focuses on preparedness in the nation’s densely populated metropolitan areas, state and large metropolitan public health departments have developed plans to rapidly respond to a large-scale bioterrorist event.

Week of May 20, 2013

CDC played a pivotal role identifying cases of anthraxIn 2001, CDC played a pivotal role identifying cases of anthrax, tracking exposures, and developing a response to treat the 32,000 individuals who were, or may have been, exposed. The anthrax bioterrorism attack of 2001 resulted in 5 deaths, 22 illnesses and economic costs exceeding $1 billion. The projected economic costs of a city-wide release of a bioterrorist agent like anthrax would reach beyond $1.8 trillion, resulting in illnesses and deaths, antibiotic treatment, decontamination and work disruption.

Week of May 13, 2013

CDC leads the National Tobacco Control ProgramCDC leads the National Tobacco Control Program facilitating national efforts to reduce tobacco use, which causes more than 400,000 deaths per year, and costs $193 billion annually (nearly $96 billion in direct medical costs and an additional $97 billion in lost productivity).

Week of April 29, 2013

CDC supports state and local preparedness activities:CDC supports state and local preparedness activities through funding and technical assistance. For example, CDC’s Public Health Emergency Preparedness cooperative agreement has provided over $9 billion in funding since 2002 to state, local and territorial public health departments to build and strengthen their ability to respond effectively to public health emergencies. In response to the 2009 influenza pandemic, CDC administered $1.4 billon to upgrade state and local preparedness and response capacity.

Week of April 22, 2013

World Malaria Day April 25:As we mark World Malaria Day April 25, did you know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has its roots in malaria? It was founded July 1, 1946 as the successor to the World War II Malaria Control in War Areas program. CDC is specifically directed by Congress to provide leadership in the areas of monitoring, evaluation, surveillance, and operational research for malaria.

Week of April 8, 2013

CDC studies highly infectious viruses, including those which cause hemorrhagic manifestations in humans.In 1976 CDC investigated two outbreaks of an unknown deadly hemorrhagic fever, later called Ebola. To see a listing of Ebola outbreaks from 1976 to the present.

Week of April 1, 2013

It’s National Public Health Week.CDC is the nation's health protection agency, working 24/7 to protect America from health and safety threats, both foreign and domestic. CDC increases the health security of our nation.

Week of March 18, 2013

Week of March 11, 2013

CDC works to ensure that all vaccines are safe whether you receive a shot in the US or anywhere in the world.Monitoring health problems after vaccination is essential to ensure the US continues to have the safest, most effective vaccine supply in history.

Week of March 4, 2013

CDC and its partners continue to monitor SARS globally.Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) was first reported in Asia in 2003 and CDC immediately began working to identify, track, and treat cases.

Week of February 25, 2013

CDC helps partners and stakeholders in preparing for, responding to and recovering from the threat of bioterrorism, emergent diseases, and other hazards.CDC created the Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) training program in 2002. CERC training has been conducted in all 10 HHS Regions and 15 countries.

Week of February 18, 2013

Week of February 11, 2013

CDC regulates the possession, use, and transfer of biological agents and toxins that could pose a severe threat to public health and safety via the Select Agent Program.This program has greatly enhanced the nation's oversight of the safety and security of select agents and is overseen by the Division of Select Agents and Toxins (DSAT), located in CDC's Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response (OPHPR).

Week of February 4, 2013

CDC/NIOSH provides national and world leadership to prevent workplace illnesses and injuries.CDC/National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health works to identify and track the association between occupational exposures and cancers.

Week of January 28, 2013

CDC looks for motivated students, graduates, and health professionals for a variety of exciting public health training programs.CDC offers public health training fellowships for everyone from high school students to trained professionals.

Week of January 21, 2013

CDC helps you protect yourself from E. coli infections.Food regulators use CDC data to improve food handling and production standards for foods that can be contaminated by E. coli 0157. Outbreaks of E. coli infections under investigation by CDC.

Week of January 7, 2013

Week of December 31, 2012

Sexual violence, stalking, and intimate partner violence are important and widespread public health problems in the United StatesCDC’s National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey collects information on partner and sexual violence and stalking. Review the survey.

Week of December 24, 2012

CDC fights the spread of infectious disease in crowded populations, for example in prisonsCDC provides recommendations and guidance for detecting, treating, and tracking infectious diseases in prisons.

Week of December 17, 2012

CDC’s disease detectives protect America when new diseases strikeCDC’s discovery of the causes of Legionnaires’ Disease (1968) and Toxic-Shock Syndrome (1980), helped protect people and saves lives from these health threats.

Week of December 10, 2012

CDC's work around the world keeps America safe from health threats For more than 60 years CDC’s scientific expertise has been called upon to help save lives and limit the spread of disease around the world. CDC has more than 304 workers in 50-plus countries.

Week of December 3, 2012

CDC tracks blood safety for patients with rare disordersA new CDC program monitors blood safety for people with Thalassemia, a group of genetic blood disorders; the most severe, Cooley's Anemia. CDC is tracking blood safety for thalassemia patients, and establishing a network of specialized health-care centers to manage the disease, treat it, and prevent patient complications.

Week of November 26, 2012

CDC helps protect children from overdoses of cold/cough medicinesCDC’s discovered that children’s cold/cough medicines cause thousands of overdoses a year. These findings led drug companies to voluntarily change the labels on these products.

Week of November 19, 2012

CDC protects Americans from infections during dental visitsIn 1990, CDC reported the possible transmission of HIV from a dentist to a patient in Florida during an invasive procedure. This led to CDC guidelines that now help keep people safe with protection between dental staff and patients, and proper cleaning of instruments and equipment. Read the original report.

Week of November 12, 2012

CDC works to prevent falls among older adultsEach year, one in three adults age 65 and older falls. Falls can cause moderate to severe injuries, such as hip fractures and head injuries, and can increase the risk of early death. CDC is helping protect older adults by supporting proven programs and providing information to both individuals and health care providers.

Week of November 5, 2012

CDC protects communities and workers from stockpiled weapon threatsCDC oversees the Army’s destruction of the nation’s stockpiled chemical weapons to make sure these are destroyed in a way that protects workers and keeps communities safe.

Week of October 29, 2012

CDC is helping keep newborns safe from HIV infectionIn 1998, CDC research found that treating HIV-infected pregnant women with a short course of AZT could reduce the risk of prenatal HIV transmission by over 50 percent. This saves countless lives in American and around the world.

Week of October 22, 2012

CDC protects America from outbreaks of infectious diseasesThere are 20 US Quarantine Stations, staffed with CDC quarantine public health officers. They help prevent the introduction of infectious diseases into the US by responding to illnesses in travelers arriving in the United States, screening cargo and animals that may pose a risk to human health, and working closely with partners at entry points to the United States.

Week of October 15, 2012

CDC takes the health pulse of the nationCDC’s has produced the health statistics reporting for America from its National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) since the early 1960s. The surveys determine the health and nutritional status of adults and children in the U.S. and are the basis for national measurement standards such as height, weight, and blood pressure. Review the latest survey results.

Week of October 8, 2012

CDC works to protect Americans from the health threats of tobacco useDid you know that 443,000 Americans die of smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke each year? For every smoking-related death, another 20 people suffer with a smoking-related disease. CDC offers tools and resources on quitting smoking.

Week of October 1, 2012

CDC is helping to drive down health-care related infectionsPeople getting medical care can catch serious infections called health care-associated infections. CDC helps monitor and prevent these infections which are an important threat to patient safety and recovery. Its recommendations for preventing many hospital-related infections help keep patients safe around the use of catheters and surgical sites.

Week of September 24, 2012

CDC supports the health of responders and others affected by the 9/11 attacks.CDC administers the government’s program to provide health monitoring and treatment for responders and others harmed by the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, stimulates new research on health effects associated with the attacks, and anticipates the long-term health needs of those we serve.